Retrievable, detachable stent-platform-based thrombectomy device (Solitaireg^™ FR) for acute stroke revascularization: First demonstration of feasibility in a canine stroke model

Objective: We sought to report the successful intracranial placement of the Solitaire FR device (ev3, Inc., Irvine, California), a self-expanding stent-platform-based thrombectomy device that is fully recoverable after deployment, effecting complete recanalization of soft and firm clots in a canine stroke model. Methods: Soft and firm clots were introduced in the target vessel to occlude the vessels completely in a mongrel dog. The clot was crossed with a SilverSpeed guidewire (ev3) and over the wire with a Rebar microcatheter (ev3). The Solitaire FR was deployed. The Solitaire FR and Rebar microcatheter were removed into the guide catheter while constant slow suction was maintained on the guide catheter. Angiographic runs were performed after deployment and retrieval of the Solitaire FR to assess recanalization, distal emboli, vessel damage, thrombosis and vasospasm. Results: Successful delivery of the device with immediate thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) 3 recanalization after deployment was achieved once in the intracranial anterior spinal artery (1.6 mm) and thrice in the extracranial vertebral artery (2.3-2.7 mm). In the case of the anterior spinal artery and when a soft clot was used in the vertebral artery, a second pass was required for complete clot recovery. No difficulty was encountered with respect to flexibility or maneuverability of the device. The distal markers were visible; the device was able to be reliably deployed and recovered within 2-4 minutes. Conclusions: Use of this device in the intracranial vasculature of a canine stroke model was technically feasible and associated with a high success rate of recanalization after clot retrieval.